Pike County residents will have a last chance to get to know candidates running in the upcoming General Election at a meet-and-greet hosted by the NAACP.

Dianna Bascomb, president of the Pike County NAACP, said the organization wanted to present a more informal setting for residents to meet candidates and discuss their platforms.

“It’s a different venue with the same desire,” Bascomb said. “It’s a facility for candidates to present their platform and for the general public to ask questions and get answers. The courthouse was more formal; we wanted this environment to be a little less formal.”

Candidates in local and state races have been invited to participate in the event. Bascomb said it is critical for voters to understand what the candidates believe and what they plan to accomplish in office.

“The candidates, whoever may win, they are there to represent the citizen,” Bascomb said.

The event will be held at the Mockingbird Hill event center at 2600 County Road 1149 in Troy from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, October 13.

On Election Day, Bascomb said the NAACP will be providing free rides to voters who need transportation to get to the polls.

“Any time we host an event or function, it is for the entire population of Pike County or surrounding counties,” Bascomb said. “It is not limited to a select group or party. We want the people that are going to be elected into office to have high morals, high values and integrity, whomever that person may be.”

Bascomb said it is important to increase voter turnout, which has historically been low.

“In the past, turnout has been significantly lower; hopefully that will improve as we continue to push and make rides available go out to polls and vote,” Bascomb said. “In order to have a voice, then you must get out and go to the polls and vote. Otherwise, you will continue to remain quiet, sitting on the sidelines and complaining.”